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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Hypoglycemia and Hyperglycemia?

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Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia are two conditions related to blood sugar levels. They have different characteristics, symptoms, and causes:

Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar):

  • Blood sugar levels are less than 70 mg/dL.
  • Symptoms include increased hunger, shakiness, rapid heartbeat, blurry vision, irritability, confusion, and drowsiness.
  • Triggers include missing a meal, eating later than planned, increased or unplanned physical activity, drinking alcohol on an empty stomach, taking too much insulin, or insulin dosing mistakes.
  • Can be treated by consuming carbohydrates, such as dextrose sugar or sugary lemonade.
  • Severe hypoglycemia may require immediate medical attention and glucagon administration.

Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar):

  • Blood sugar levels are elevated, usually greater than 125 mg/dL.
  • Symptoms include extreme thirst, dry mouth, weakness, headache, frequent urination, blurry vision, nausea, and confusion.
  • Factors contributing to hyperglycemia include expired insulin, problems with insulin absorption, large carbohydrate intake without adequate insulin coverage, physical inactivity, stress, illness, infection, or the dawn phenomenon (a surge of hormones during early morning hours).
  • Treatment involves adjusting insulin dosage, monitoring blood glucose levels, and incorporating lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise.
  • Persistent hyperglycemia can lead to serious complications, such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which involves high levels of ketones in the blood.

It is essential to understand the differences between these conditions and recognize their symptoms to prevent and treat them effectively. If you experience symptoms of either high or low blood sugar, seek medical evaluation.

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  • What is the Difference Between Hypoglycemia and Hyperglycemia?
  • Comparative Table: Hypoglycemia vs Hyperglycemia

    • Comparative Table: Hypoglycemia vs Hyperglycemia

    Here is a table comparing the differences between hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia:

    Feature Hypoglycemia Hyperglycemia
    Definition Low blood sugar, usually defined as less than 70 mg/dL High blood sugar, usually defined as greater than 125 mg/dL
    Common Causes Taking too much insulin or diabetes medication, not eating enough, or exercising more than usual Insufficient insulin production or inability of the body to use insulin efficiently
    Symptoms Hunger, irritability, trouble concentrating, fatigue, sweating, confusion, fast heartbeat, shaking, and headache Extreme thirst, dry mouth, weakness, headache, frequent urination, blurry vision, nausea, confusion, and shortness of breath
    Treatment Mild cases can be treated by consuming carbohydrates, such as fruit juice or glucose tablets. Severe cases may require glucagon injection. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may involve adjustments to medication, diet, or lifestyle. In some cases, insulin therapy may be required.
    Prevention Eating regular meals, managing diabetes medication, and adjusting medication based on exercise or other factors. Monitoring blood sugar levels, managing diabetes medication, and adjusting medication based on exercise or other factors.

    Both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia can cause major health problems, especially for people with diabetes. It is essential to keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range to avoid complications. If you experience symptoms of either low or high blood sugar, seek medical evaluation.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.